The vibrant heartbeat of Queens is set to pulse even stronger this June as we kick off the third annual Queens Rising celebration. This month-long ode to creativity and diversity promises to be a spectacular showcase of local talent and venues that make our borough shine.
Queens Rising bursts into life on June 1st, offering an extensive lineup of events spanning the arts and culture spectrum. From visual arts exhibitions to live performances, interactive workshops, and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and be inspired by. Last year’s collaboration with 100 local organizations and over 300 events was a testament to the richness and depth of talent right here in our community.
New to this year’s celebration is the exciting “Queens Scene” initiative, a series of performances by Queens-based artists hosted at four esteemed venues: Flushing Town Hall, Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning, Queens Botanical Garden, and Terraza 7 in Elmhurst. This initiative highlights the incredible talents residing in our borough and underscores Queens’ growing reputation as a cultural hub.
Leonard Jacobs, Executive Director of the Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning, encapsulates the spirit of Queens Rising, stating, “Today, it’s real,” acknowledging the substantial impact this celebration has had on elevating local artists and venues.
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards champions this initiative, emphasizing the economic and cultural significance of investing in the arts. His commitment to supporting the creative sector has already seen substantial investments, ensuring that Queens remains a thriving cultural epicenter.
Support from sponsors like Northwell Health, Resorts World NYC, the Howard Gilman Foundation, and others is crucial to amplifying the reach of Queens Rising. Their contributions ensure that this celebration continues to grow, allowing more artists and venues to shine on a broader stage.
One of the highlights of Queens Rising is the upcoming exhibition at Culture Lab LIC titled “Say it Loud: Unsung Heroes,” a tribute to the unique LGBTQ voices that have shaped our community and society. This exhibition not only celebrates diversity but also encourages dialogue and understanding.
As we look ahead to June, immerse yourself in a month-long journey of art, culture, and community showcasing the best of Queens.